What is nutritional deficiency anemia? What causes nutritional deficiency anemia? - Medical News Today What is nutritional deficiency anemia? What causes nutritional deficiency anemia? Written by Sy Kraft B.A. 3.5 17 2 Nutritional or vitamin deficiency anemia refers to a reduced red blood cell count due to a poor diet which is deficient in iron, folate and/or Vitamin B12. Anemia is a widespread public health problem associated with an increased risk of morbidity and mortality, especially in pregnant women and young children. It is a disease with multiple causes, both nutritional (vitamin and mineral deficiencies) and non-nutritional (infection) that frequently co-occur. It is assumed that one of the most common contributing factors is iron deficiency, and anemia resulting from iron deficiency is considered to be one of the top ten contributors to the global burden of disease. In iron deficiency anemia, the red cells appear abnormal and are unusually small (microcytic) and pale (hypochromic). The pallor of the red cells reflects their low hemoglobin content.

Some affliction facts are as follows: global prevalence of anemia in preschool aged children is 47.4%, global prevalence of anemia in pregnant women is 41.8%, global prevalence of anemia in non-pregnant women is 30.2%, 818 million women worldwide (both pregnant and non-pregnant) and young children suffer from anemia and over half of these, approximately 520 million, live in Asia. What are the symptoms Nutritional Deficiency Anemia? A symptom is something the patient senses and describes, while a sign is something other people, such as the doctor notice. For example, drowsiness may be a symptom while dilated pupils may be a sign. Vitamin deficiency anemia is characterized by pallor (reduced amount of oxyhemoglobin in skin or mucous membrane), fatigue and weakness. Because it tends to develop slowly, adaptation occurs and the disease often goes unrecognized for some time. In severe cases, dyspnea (trouble breathing) can occur. Unusual obsessive food cravings, known as pica, may develop. Pagophagia or pica for ice is a very specific symptom and may disappear with correction of iron deficiency anemia.

Hair loss and lightheadedness can also be associated with iron deficiency anemia. Additional symptoms may include: constipation , sleepiness, tinnitus , palpitations, hair loss, fainting or feeling faint, depression , breathlessness on exertion, twitching muscles, tingling, numbness, or burning sensations, missed or heavy menstrual cycle. Anemia goes undetected in many people, and symptoms can be minor or vague. The signs and symptoms can be related to the anemia itself, or the underlying cause. Most commonly, people with anemia report non-specific symptoms of a feeling of weakness, or fatigue, general malaise and sometimes poor concentration. What are the causes of Nutritional Deficiency Anemia? A cause of deficiency anemia, particularly iron, is the ulcer bacteria. The diagnosis of iron deficiency anemia requires further investigation as to its cause. It can be a sign of other disease, such as colon cancer , which will cause the loss of blood in the stool. In adults, 60% of patients with iron deficiency anemia may have underlying gastrointestinal disorders leading to chronic blood loss.

In addition to dietary insufficiency, malabsorption, chronic blood loss, diversion of iron to fetal erythropoiesis during pregnancy, intravascular hemolysis and hemoglobinuria or other forms of chronic blood loss should all be considered. Diagnosing Nutritional Deficiency Anemia Anemia is often first shown by routine blood tests, which generally include a complete blood count. Traditionally, a definitive diagnosis requires a demonstration of depleted body iron stores by performing a bone marrow aspiration, with the marrow stained for iron. Because this is invasive and painful, while a clinical trial of iron supplementation is inexpensive and non-traumatic, patients are often treated based on clinical history alone. What are the treatment options for Nutritional Deficiency Anemia? The treatment of deficiency anemia, whether it be in children or adults, is with vitamin supplements and mineral rich foods. Food sources of iron in particular include meat, poultry, eggs, vegetables and fortified cereals. If anemia does not respond to oral treatments, it may be necessary to administer parenterally using a drip or hemodialysis. Parenteral iron in particular involves risks of fever , chills, backache, myalgia, dizziness, syncope, rash and anaphylactic shock .

A follow up blood test is essential to demonstrate whether the treatment has been effective. Preventing Nutritional Deficiency Anemia A diet that meets the dietary guidelines will ordinarily have enough iron, folate, and vitamin B 12 to prevent anemia. Exceptions include women of childbearing age who are well advised to take supplemental iron and folic acid , and preterm infants who are often prescribed iron supplements. Ask your doctor if you should take these supplements. In addition, a regular physical exam often includes a complete blood count, so undergoing regular check-ups can detect nutritional anemia in an early stage. Written by Sy Kraft (B.A.) Click the stars to rate this article What is nutritional deficiency anemia? What causes nutritional deficiency anemia? Public / Patient What Causes Iron-Deficiency Anemia? - NHLBI, NIH What Causes Iron-Deficiency Anemia? Share this page from the NHLBI on Blogger. Share this page from the NHLBI on Buzz. Share this page from the NHLBI on Delicious. Share this page from the NHLBI on Digg. Share this page from the NHLBI on Facebook. Add this link to the NHLBI to my browser. Email this page with Gmail. Bookmark this page with Google.

Share this page from the NHLBI on LinkedIn. Share this page from the NHLBI on Messenger. Share this page from the NHLBI on MySpace. Share this page from the NHLBI on Reddit. Share this page from the NHLBI on Stumble. Share this page from the NHLBI on Tumblr. Share this page from the NHLBI on Twitter. What Causes Iron-Deficiency Anemia? Not having enough iron in your body causes iron-deficiency anemia. Lack of iron usually is due to blood loss, poor diet, or an inability to absorb enough iron from food. Blood Loss When you lose blood, you lose iron. If you don't have enough iron stored in your body to make up for the lost iron, you'll develop iron-deficiency anemia. In women, long or heavy menstrual periods or bleeding fibroids in the uterus may cause low iron levels. Blood loss that occurs during childbirth is another cause of low iron levels in women. Internal bleeding (bleeding inside the body) also may lead to iron-deficiency anemia. This type of blood loss isn't always obvious, and it may occur slowly.

Some causes of internal bleeding are: A bleeding ulcer, colon polyp, or colon cancer Regular use of aspirin or other pain medicines, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (for example, ibuprofen and naproxen) Urinary tract bleeding Iron Deficiency Anemia: Causes, Symptoms, & Treatment Iron Deficiency Anemia Written by Jacquelyn Cafasso and Rachel Nall Medically Reviewed by Email addresses will not be shared with 3rd parties. See privacy policy Thank you. Your message has been sent. OK We're sorry, an error occurred. We are unable to collect your feedback at this time. However, your feedback is important to us. Please try again later. Close Read Next What is iron deficiency anemia? Anemia occurs when you have a level of red blood cells (RBCs) in your blood that is lower than normal. Iron deficiency anemia is the most common type of anemia, and it occurs when your body doesn’t have enough of the mineral iron. Your body needs iron to make a protein called hemoglobin. This protein is responsible for carrying oxygen to your body’s tissues, which is essential for your tissues and muscles to function effectively.

When there isn’t enough iron in your blood stream, the rest of your body can’t get the amount of oxygen it needs. While the condition may be common, a lot of people don’t know they have iron deficiency anemia. It’s possible to experience the symptoms for years without ever knowing the cause. In women of childbearing age, the most common cause of iron deficiency anemia is a loss of iron in the blood due to heavy menstruation or pregnancy. A poor diet or certain intestinal diseases that affect how the body absorbs iron can also cause iron deficiency anemia. Doctors normally treat the condition with iron supplements or changes to diet. What causes iron deficiency anemia? According to the American Society of Hematology , iron deficiency is the most common cause of anemia. There are many reasons why a person might become deficient in iron. These include: Inadequate iron intake Eating too little iron over an extended amount of time can cause a shortage in your body. Foods such as meat, eggs, and some green leafy vegetables are high in iron. Because iron is essential during times of rapid growth and development, pregnant women and young children may need even more iron-rich foods in their diet.

Pregnancy or blood loss due to menstruation In women of childbearing age, the most common causes of iron deficiency anemia are heavy menstrual bleeding and blood loss during childbirth. Internal bleeding Certain medical conditions can cause internal bleeding, which can lead to iron deficiency anemia. Examples include an ulcer in your stomach , polyps in the colon or intestines, or colon cancer . Regular use of pain relievers, such as aspirin , can also cause bleeding in the stomach. Inability to absorb iron Certain disorders or surgeries that affect the intestines can also interfere with how your body absorbs iron. Even if you get enough iron in your diet, celiac disease or intestinal surgery, such as gastric bypass, may limit the amount of iron your body can absorb. Who is at risk for iron deficiency anemia? Anemia is a common condition and can occur in both men and women of any age and from any ethnic group. Some people may be at greater risk for iron deficiency anemia than others.

These include: women of childbearing age people who donate blood frequently infants and children, especially those born prematurely or experiencing a growth spurt vegetarians who don’t replace meat with another iron-rich food If you’re at risk for iron deficiency anemia, talk to your doctor to determine if blood testing or dietary changes could benefit you. What are the symptoms of iron deficiency anemia? The symptoms of iron deficiency anemia can be very mild at first, and you may not even notice them. According to the American Society of Hematology (ASH) , most people don’t realize they have mild anemia until they have a routine blood test. The symptoms of moderate to severe iron deficiency anemia include: general fatigue RBCs are pale in color if they’re deficient in iron. ferritin levels Ferritin is a protein that helps with iron storage in your body. Low levels of ferritin indicate low iron storage. total iron-binding capacity (TIBC) Transferrin is a protein that transports iron. A TIBC test is used to determine the amount transferrin that’s carrying iron. Tests for internal bleeding If your doctor is concerned that internal bleeding is causing your anemia, additional tests may be needed.

One test you may have is fecal occult test to look for blood in your feces. Blood in your feces may indicate bleeding in your intestine. Your doctor may also perform endoscopy , in which a small camera on a flexible tube is used to view the linings of your gastrointestinal tract. An EGD test (upper endoscopy) allows a doctor to examine the lining of the esophagus, stomach, and the upper part of the small intestine. A colonoscopy (lower endoscopy) allows a doctor to examine the lining of the colon, the lower portion of the large intestine. These tests can help identify sources of gastrointestinal bleeding. Iron deficiency anemia in women Pregnancy, significant menstrual bleeding, and uterine fibroids are all reasons why women are more likely to experience iron deficiency anemia. Heavy menstrual bleeding occurs when a woman bleeds longer or more than women typically bleed during menstruation. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) , typical menstrual bleeding lasts for four to five days and the amount of blood lost ranges from 2 to 3 tablespoons. Women with excess menstrual bleeding typically bleed for more than seven days and lose twice as much blood as normal.

According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) , an estimated 20 percent of women of childbearing age have iron deficiency anemia. Pregnant women are even more likely to experience iron deficiency anemia because they require greater amounts of blood to support their growing babies. A pelvic ultrasound can be used to look for the source of excess bleeding during a woman’s period, such as fibroids. Like iron deficiency anemia, uterine fibroids often don’t cause symptoms. However, they occur when muscular tumors grow in the uterus. While they’re not usually cancerous, they can commonly cause heavy menstrual bleeding that can lead to iron deficiency anemia. What are the potential health complications of iron deficiency anemia? Most cases of iron deficiency anemia are mild and don’t cause complications. The condition can usually be easily corrected. However, if anemia or iron deficiency is untreated, it can lead to other health problems, including: Rapid or irregular heartbeat When you’re anemic, your heart has to pump more blood to make up for the low amount of oxygen. This can lead to irregular heartbeat. In severe cases, it can lead to heart failure or an enlarged heart.

Pregnancy complications In severe cases of iron deficiency, a child may be born prematurely or with a low birth weight. Most pregnant women take iron supplements as part of their prenatal care to prevent this from happening. Delayed growth in infants and children Infants and children who are severely deficient in iron may experience a delay in their growth and development. They may also be more likely to experience infections. How is iron deficiency anemia treated? Iron supplements Iron tablets can help restore iron levels in your body. If possible, you should take iron tablets on an empty stomach, which helps the body absorb them better. If they upset your stomach, you can take them with meals. You may need to take the supplements for several months. Iron supplements may cause constipation or stools that are black in color. Diet Diets high that include the following foods can help treat or prevent iron deficiency: red meat nuts iron-fortified cereals Additionally, vitamin C helps your body absorb iron. If you’re taking iron tablets, a doctor might suggest taking the tablets along with a source of vitamin C, like a glass of orange juice or citrus fruit. Treating the underlying cause of bleeding Iron supplements won’t help if excess bleeding causes the deficiency.

A doctor may prescribe birth control pills to women who have heavy periods. This can reduce the amount of menstrual bleeding each month. In the most severe cases, a blood transfusion can replace iron and blood loss quickly. Can iron deficiency anemia be prevented? When caused by inadequate iron intake, iron deficiency anemia can be prevented by eating a diet high in iron-rich foods and vitamin C. Mothers should make sure to feed their babies breast milk or iron-fortified infant formula. Foods high in iron include: meat, such as lamb, pork, chicken, and beef beans Anemia Causes - Anemia Health Information - NY Times Health In-Depth From A.D.A.M. Causes Iron Deficiency Anemia Iron deficiency anemia occurs when the body lacks mineral iron to produce the hemoglobin it needs to make red blood cells. In general, there are three stages leading from iron deficiency to anemia: First, there is an insufficient supply of iron, which causes iron stores in the bone marrow to be depleted. This stage generally has no symptoms. Second, iron deficiencies develop and begin to affect hemoglobin production. (Tests will show low hemoglobin and hematocrit levels.) Hemoglobin production declines to the point where anemia develops.

Most of the iron used in the body can be recycled from blood and reused. Nevertheless, iron deficiency can occur from a number of conditions. Inadequate Iron Intake. A healthy diet easily provides enough iron. In general, most people need just 1 mg, and menstruating women need 2 mg of extra iron each day. This means that lack of iron in the diet is not a common cause of iron deficiency anemia, except in infants. In fact, most American adults may be consuming too much iron in their diet. Most of the iron in red blood cells is recycled and reused. Iron-poor diets are a cause of anemia only in people with existing risks for iron deficiency. Children who have not yet eaten iron-fortified formulas or iron-enriched cereal may also become anemic. Blood Loss. Iron deficiencies most commonly occur from internal blood loss due to other conditions that range in severity. These conditions include: Peptic ulcers, which may be caused by H. pylori infections, or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen.

Many long-term users of these medications have some sign of gastrointestinal bleeding, although it is rarely significant enough to cause anemia. Duodenal ulcers Colon, stomach, and esophageal cancer Very heavy periods (menorrhagia) are the most common causes of anemia in menstruating women. Bleeding from esophageal varices, often present in alcoholics Impaired Absorption of Iron. Impaired absorption of iron is caused by: Certain intestinal diseases (inflammatory bowel disease, celiac disease) Surgical procedures, particularly those involving removal of parts of the stomach and small intestine, can impair the ability of the stomach or intestine to absorb iron. (Such conditions also often impair folic acid absorption as well.) Pica, the craving for non-food substances such as ice, starch, or clay, is a possible cause of iron deficiency. To complicate matters, pica (particularly ice cravings) may also be a symptom, rather than a cause, of anemia. Certain intestinal infections, such as hookworm and other parasites. Genetic Causes. Some people are born with iron deficiency. Certain cases may be due to a mutation of the Nramp2 gene, which regulates a protein responsible for delivering iron to the cells.

Anemia of Chronic Disease (ACD) Anemia of chronic disease (ACD), also called anemia of chronic inflammation (ACI), is a common condition associated with a wide variety of persistent inflammatory diseases. It can be very severe and require transfusions. The Inflammatory Process and ACD. ACD is not completely understood. In ACD, iron is not efficiently recycled from blood cells, and red blood cell survival is reduced. In addition, there is impaired response to erythropoietin, the hormone that acts in the bone marrow to increase the production of red blood cells. (Abnormal function and low levels of erythropoietin, in fact, may be the most important factor in ACD, with impaired iron utilization being a consequence.) Diseases Associated with ACD and Inflammation. The chronic diseases that are associated with this process include: Certain cancers. Examples include lymphomas and Hodgkin's disease. Autoimmune diseases. Examples include rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, inflammatory bowel disease, and polymyalgia rheumatica. Long-term infections. Examples include chronic or recurrent urinary tract infections and osteomyelitis. Hepatitis C.

The liver cirrhosis associated with hepatitis C can reduce the production of red blood cells. Gastrointestinal bleeding may also contribute to blood loss. Heart failure. Many patients with heart failure also have anemia. Anemia is associated with a higher risk of death in patients with heart failure. However, it is unclear whether anemia actually causes or worsens heart failure. Recent research suggests it may actually be a sign (marker) of heart failure. Iron deficiency in heart failure can be due to a number of factors. It may be caused by a lack of nutrients in a person’s diet or by the body’s inability to absorb nutrients from food. Heart failure can also cause a back up of fluid (edema). This edema produces a higher volume of blood plasma (the liquid part of blood), which can dilute red blood cells and cause anemia. Chronic kidney disease. The hormone erythropoietin (EPO) is produced in the kidneys and stimulates the bone marrow production of red blood cells. Diseased kidneys do not release sufficient amounts of EPO; anemia can result and is universal in end-stage renal disease. Chronic kidney disease is a common complication of diabetes. HIV/AIDS.

The inflammatory process associated with AIDS can adversely affect EPO levels and red blood cell production. Anemia in critically ill patients. There may be similarities between ACD and severe anemia in patients who are in intensive care. The cause of anemia in such critically ill patients may also be due to inflammatory responses that promote impaired responsiveness to erythropoietin. Not all chronic diseases involve the inflammatory process and anemia. For example, high blood pressure is a chronic disease, but it does not affect red blood cells. Treatment-Related Anemia. Anemia can also result from the therapies used to treat conditions. For example, anemia is a common side effect of cancer treatments. Chemotherapy and radiation can impair the bone marrow's production of red blood cells and contribute to the extreme fatigue that many patients experience during cancer therapy. Patients with hepatitis C frequently receive combination therapy of ribavirin and interferon; ribavirin can induce anemia. Hepatitis C also affects many patients with HIV or AIDS. In addition to ribavirin, patients with HIV or AIDS can develop anemia as a result of highly active anti-retroviral therapy (HAART) and, in particular, from the drug AZT.

Other medications that increase the risk for anemia are certain antibiotics, some antiseizure medications (phenytoin), immunosuppressive drugs (methotrexate, azathioprine), antiarrhythmic drugs (procainamide, quinidine), and anti-clotting drugs (aspirin, warfarin, clopidogrel, heparin). Megaloblastic Anemia Megaloblastic anemia is the end-product of deficiencies in the B vitamins folate or vitamin B12 (also called cobalamin), or both. Such deficiencies produce abnormally large red blood cells (megaloblastic) that have a shortened lifespan. Neurologic problems are also associated with these deficiencies. Several conditions can cause these deficiencies. Click the icon to see an image of red blood cells seen in megaloblastic anemia. Causes of Vitamin B12 Deficiency. Conditions that cause vitamin B12 deficiencies include: Vitamin B12 deficiency from diet is very rare, since the liver stores over a 3-year supply. It usually does not occur even in alcoholism, vegetarianism, or in malnourished people with kidney failure or cancer.

Since animal products are the chief source, however, true vegan vegetarians may need a supplement, fortified food, or appropriate food selection known to contain adequate amounts of this vitamin Pernicious anemia. Pernicious anemia is an autoimmune disease in which antibodies are tricked into attacking stomach cells. This results in impaired production of intrinsic factor (IF), a compound that is critical for absorption of vitamin B12. Pernicious anemia is diagnosed in about 1% of people over age 60, with women having a higher risk than men. Complications of gastrointestinal surgery. Surgeries such as stomach bypass or stapling, which remove part or all of the stomach, pose a 15 - 30% chance of causing vitamin B12 deficiencies. Overgrowth of intestinal bacteria Click the icon to see an image of the benefits of vitamin B12. Causes of Folate Deficiency. The body stores only about 100 times its daily requirements for folate and can exhaust this supply within about 3 months if the diet is deficient in folate. Poor diet coupled with alcoholism is the most common cause of folate deficiency.

Alcohol abuse not only contributes to malnutrition but also causes chemical changes that can result in lower folate levels. Any condition that disturbs the small intestine and impairs its absorption ability can cause a deficiency. Such disorders include inflammatory bowel disease or celiac sprue (a sensitivity reaction to gluten) Parasitic diseases such as giardiasis Short bowel syndrome Deficiencies can also arise due to high demand for folic acid caused by conditions such as cancer, pregnancy, severe psoriasis, severe hyperthyroidism, and hemolytic anemia. Some drugs, including phenytoin, methotrexate, trimethoprim, and triamterene, may also hinder folate absorption. Less Common Anemias Vitamin deficiency anemia Disease Reference Guide - Drugs.com Vitamin deficiency anemia Overview Vitamin deficiency anemia is a lack of healthy red blood cells caused when you have lower than normal amounts of certain vitamins. Vitamins linked to vitamin deficiency anemia include folate, vitamin B-12 and vitamin C. Vitamin deficiency anemia can occur if you don't eat enough folate, vitamin B-12 or vitamin C. Or vitamin deficiency anemia can occur if your body has trouble absorbing or processing these vitamins.

Not all anemias are caused by a vitamin deficiency. Other causes include iron deficiency and certain blood diseases. That's why it's important to have your doctor diagnose and treat your anemia. Vitamin deficiency anemia can usually be corrected with vitamin supplements and changes to your diet. Symptoms Signs and symptoms of vitamin deficiency anemia include: Fatigue Unsteady movements Mental confusion or forgetfulness Vitamin deficiencies usually develop slowly over several months to years. Vitamin deficiency symptoms may be subtle at first, but they increase as the deficiency worsens. Causes Vitamin deficiency anemia occurs when your body doesn't have enough of the vitamins needed to produce adequate numbers of healthy red blood cells. Red blood cells carry oxygen from your lungs throughout your body. If your diet is lacking in certain vitamins, vitamin deficiency anemia can develop. Or vitamin deficiency anemia may develop because your body can't properly absorb the nutrients from the foods you eat. Causes of vitamin deficiency anemias, also known as megaloblastic anemias, include: Folate deficiency anemia. Folate, also known as vitamin B-9, is a nutrient found mainly in fruits and leafy green vegetables. A diet consistently lacking in these foods can lead to a deficiency.

An inability to absorb folate from food also can lead to a deficiency. Most nutrients from food are absorbed in your small intestine. People with diseases of the small intestine, such as celiac disease, or those who have had a large part of the small intestine surgically removed or bypassed may have difficulty absorbing folate or its synthetic form, folic acid. Alcohol decreases absorption of folate, so drinking alcohol to excess may lead to a deficiency. Certain prescription drugs, such as some anti-seizure medications, can interfere with absorption of this nutrient. Pregnant women and women who are breast-feeding have an increased demand for folate, as do people undergoing hemodialysis for kidney disease. Failure to meet this increased demand can result in a deficiency. Vitamin B-12 deficiency anemia. Vitamin B-12 deficiency can result from a diet lacking in vitamin B-12, which is found mainly in meat, eggs and milk. Vitamin B-12 deficiency anemia can also occur if your small intestine can't absorb vitamin B-12.

This may be due to surgery to your stomach or small intestine (such as gastric bypass surgery), abnormal bacterial growth in your small intestine, or an intestinal disease, such as Crohn's disease or celiac disease, that interferes with absorption of the vitamin. Vitamin B-12 deficiency can also be caused by a tapeworm ingested from contaminated fish, because the tapeworm saps nutrients from your body. However, a vitamin B-12 deficiency is most often due to a lack of a substance called intrinsic factor. Intrinsic factor is a protein secreted by the stomach that joins vitamin B-12 in the stomach and escorts it through the small intestine to be absorbed by your bloodstream. Without intrinsic factor, vitamin B-12 can't be absorbed and leaves your body as waste. Lack of intrinsic factor may be due to an autoimmune reaction in which your immune system mistakenly attacks the stomach cells that produce it. Vitamin B-12 deficiency anemia caused by a lack of intrinsic factor is called pernicious anemia. Vitamin C deficiency anemia. Vitamin C deficiency can develop if you don't get enough vitamin C from the foods you eat.

Vitamin C deficiency is also possible if something impairs your ability to absorb vitamin C from food. For instance, smoking impairs your body's ability to absorb vitamin C. Risk factors A number of factors can affect your body's vitamin stores. In general, your risk of vitamin deficiency is increased if: Your diet contains little to no natural vitamin food sources, such as meat, dairy, fruits and vegetables. Vegetarians who don't eat dairy products and vegans, who don't eat any foods from animals, may fall into this category. Consistently overcooking your food also can cause vitamin deficiency. You're pregnant, and you aren't taking a multivitamin. Folic acid supplements are especially important during pregnancy. You have intestinal problems or other medical conditions that interfere with absorption of vitamins. Abnormal bacterial growth in your stomach or surgery to your intestines or stomach can interfere with the absorption of vitamin B-12. You abuse alcohol. Alcohol interferes with the absorption of folate and vitamin C, as well as other vitamins. You take certain prescription medications that can block absorption of vitamins. Anti-seizure drugs can block the absorption of folate.

Antacids and some drugs used to treat type 2 diabetes may interfere with B-12 absorption. Some risk factors are unique to specific vitamin deficiencies. Folate-deficiency anemia risk factors include: Undergoing hemodialysis for kidney failure. Ask your doctor whether you need supplemental folic acid to prevent a deficiency. Cancer treatment. Some drugs used to treat cancer can interfere with the metabolism of folate. Vitamin B-12 deficiency anemia risk factors include: Lack of intrinsic factor. Most people with a vitamin B-12 deficiency anemia lack intrinsic factor — a protein secreted by the stomach that is necessary for absorption of vitamin B-12. Lack of intrinsic factor may be due to an autoimmune reaction, or it may be inherited. An autoimmune disorder. People with endocrine-related autoimmune disorders, such as diabetes or thyroid disease, may have an increased risk of developing a specific type of vitamin B-12 deficiency anemia called pernicious anemia. Vitamin C deficiency anemia risk factors include: Smoking. Smoking can lead to vitamin C deficiency because it decreases the absorption of this vitamin. Chronic illness.

Certain chronic illnesses, such as cancer or chronic kidney disease, increase your risk of vitamin C deficiency anemia by affecting the absorption of vitamin C. Complications Being deficient in vitamins increases your risk of many health problems: Pregnancy complications. Pregnant women with folate deficiency may be more likely to experience complications, such as premature birth. A developing fetus that doesn't get enough folate from its mother can develop birth defects of the brain and spinal cord. If you're thinking of becoming pregnant, ask your doctor whether you should consider taking folic acid supplements so that your body's stores of folate will be enough to support your baby. Nervous system disorders. While vitamin B-12 is important for the production of red blood cells, it's also important for a healthy nervous system. Untreated, vitamin B-12 deficiency can lead to neurological problems, such as persistent tingling in your hands and feet or problems with balance. It can lead to mental confusion and forgetfulness because vitamin B-12 is necessary for healthy brain function. Without treatment for vitamin B-12 deficiency, neurological complications can become permanent. Vitamin B-12 deficiency can cause these and other health problems before it leads to anemia. Scurvy.

Vitamin C deficiency can lead to scurvy. Signs and symptoms of this rare disease include bleeding under the skin and around the gums. Diagnosis Doctors diagnose vitamin deficiency anemias through blood tests that check: The number and appearance of red blood cells. People with anemia have fewer red blood cells than normal. In vitamin deficiency anemias related to a lack of vitamin B-12 and folate, the red blood cells appear large and underdeveloped. In advanced deficiencies, the numbers of white blood cells and platelets also might be decreased and look abnormal under a microscope. The amount of folate, vitamin B-12 and vitamin C in your blood. Folate and vitamin B-12 levels are measured at the same time because these deficiencies can cause similar signs and symptoms. Additional tests for B-12 deficiency If blood tests reveal a vitamin deficiency, your doctor may perform other tests to determine the type and cause, such as: Antibodies test. Your doctor may draw a sample of your blood to check for antibodies to intrinsic factor. Their presence indicates pernicious anemia. Methylmalonic acid test. You may undergo a blood test to measure the presence of a substance called methylmalonic acid.

The level of this substance is higher in people with vitamin B-12 deficiency. Schilling test. In this test, you first ingest a tiny amount of radioactive vitamin B-12. Then your blood is checked to see if your body absorbed the vitamin B-12. After that, you ingest a combination of radioactive vitamin B-12 and intrinsic factor. If the radioactive B-12 is absorbed only when taken with intrinsic factor, it confirms that you lack your own intrinsic factor. Treatment Treatment for vitamin deficiency anemia includes supplements and changes in diet. Folate deficiency anemia. Treatment involves eating a healthy diet and taking folic acid supplements as prescribed by your doctor. In most cases, folic acid supplements are taken orally. Once your body's level of folate increases to normal, you may be able to stop taking the supplements. But if the cause of your folate deficiency can't be corrected, you may need to take folic acid supplements indefinitely. Vitamin B-12 deficiency anemia, including pernicious anemia. For milder cases of vitamin B-12 deficiency, treatment may involve changes to your diet and vitamin B-12 supplements in pill form or as a nasal spray.

Your doctor may suggest vitamin B-12 injections, particularly if your vitamin B-12 deficiency is severe. At first, you may receive the shots as often as every other day. Eventually, you'll need injections just once a month, which may continue for life, depending on your situation. Vitamin C deficiency anemia. Treatment for anemia related to vitamin C deficiency is with vitamin C tablets. Additionally, you increase your intake of foods and beverages that contain vitamin C. Preparing for an appointment If you suspect that you have vitamin deficiency anemia, you're likely to start by seeing your family doctor or a general practitioner. However, in some cases, you may be referred to a doctor who specializes in treating blood disorders (hematologist). Here's some information to help you get ready for your appointment and what to expect from your doctor. What you can do Note down any symptoms you're experiencing, even if they seem unrelated to the reason you have scheduled the appointment. Make a note of key personal information, including things like recent life changes, or major stresses. Make a list of all medications as well as any vitamins or supplements you're taking. Write down questions to ask your doctor.

Your time with your doctor is limited, so preparing a list of questions will help you make the most of your time together. For vitamin deficiency anemia, some basic questions to ask your doctor include: What's the most likely cause of my symptoms? Could anything else be causing my symptoms? Is my condition likely temporary or long lasting? What treatment do you recommend? Are there any alternatives to the approach that you're suggesting? I have another health condition. How can I best manage these conditions together? Are there any foods I need to add to my diet? Are there any brochures or other material that I can take with me? What websites do you recommend? In addition to the questions that you've prepared to ask your doctor, don't hesitate to ask questions during your appointment anytime that you don't understand something. What to expect from your doctor Your doctor is likely to ask you a number of questions. Being ready to answer them may reserve time to go over points you want to spend more time on. Your doctor may ask: When did you begin experiencing symptoms? How severe are your symptoms? Does anything seem to improve your symptoms? What, if anything, appears to worsen your symptoms? Are you a vegetarian?

How many servings of fruits and vegetables do you usually eat in a day? Do you drink alcohol? If so, how often, and how many drinks do you usually have? Are you a smoker? Prevention Choose a healthy diet You can prevent some forms of vitamin deficiency anemias by choosing a healthy diet that includes a variety of foods. Foods rich in folate include: Dark green leafy vegetables Enriched grain products, such as bread, cereal, pasta and rice Fruits and fruit juices Most adults need these daily dietary amounts of the following vitamins: Vitamin B-12 — 2.4 micrograms (mcg) Folate or folic acid — 400 mcg Vitamin C — 75 to 90 milligrams Pregnant and breast-feeding women may require more of each vitamin. Consider a multivitamin If you're concerned about getting enough vitamins from the food you eat, ask your doctor whether a multivitamin may be right for you. Most people get enough vitamins from the foods they eat. But if your diet is restricted, you may wish to take a multivitamin.

Don't smoke Smoking interferes with the absorption of nutrients, such as vitamin C, so it can raise your risk of a vitamin deficiency. If you smoke, quit. If you don't smoke, don't start. If you've tried to quit on your own and haven't been successful, talk with your doctor about strategies to help you quit. Drink alcohol in moderation, if at all Alcohol can contribute to vitamin deficiency anemia. If you choose to drink alcohol, do so in moderation. For healthy adults, moderate drinking is generally considered to be: Two drinks a day for men age 65 and younger One drink a day for men older than age 65 One drink a day for women of any age A drink is 12 ounces (355 milliliters) of beer, 5 ounces (148 milliliters) of wine or 1.5 ounces (44 milliliters) of 80-proof distilled spirits. Last updated: November 9th, 2016 © 1998-2017 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research (MFMER). All rights reserved.

Terms of use Latest Drug Information Updates Trace Minerals: The Test Trace Minerals Also known as: Trace Elements; Micronutrients; Microminerals; Essential Minerals Formal name: Trace Minerals Is there anything else I should know? How is it used? Trace mineral tests are typically ordered individually to detect, evaluate, and monitor mineral deficiencies or excesses. A health care practitioner may select one or more tests based upon the symptoms or underlying conditions the patient has. Sometimes more than one test is ordered to detect a single deficiency or toxicity, such as with copper and ceruloplasmin together to evaluate the amount of copper in the body or a group of iron tests (iron, total iron binding capacity, and ferritin) with a CBC (Complete Blood Count) to evaluate iron deficiency as a potential cause of anemia . If a person is malnourished or has a condition associated with malabsorption , a practitioner may order several trace mineral tests for an initial evaluation, then order one or more tests periodically to monitor the person's nutritional status and/or the effectiveness of treatment.

If someone has an inherited condition that leads to excess concentrations of a mineral, or has been exposed to toxic concentrations, a test for such a mineral may be ordered to help detect and diagnose the condition. Additional tests may be ordered at intervals to monitor the person's condition. ^ Back to top When is it ordered? With the possible exception of an iron test , trace mineral tests are not routinely ordered; rather, they are ordered when a mineral deficiency or excess is suspected due to a person's medical history or signs and symptoms . Deficiencies in trace minerals can cause a range of symptoms, depending on the mineral(s) that are lacking. Symptoms may include: ^ Back to top What does the test result mean? In general, low concentrations of a mineral indicate a deficiency and high concentrations indicate an excess. Successful treatment for a deficiency should show increasing mineral levels and a decrease in symptoms while treatment for mineral toxicity should show decreasing mineral levels and a corresponding decrease in symptoms. Trace mineral test results must, however, be interpreted with a degree of caution. Certain treatments for excess minerals can actually increase mineral concentrations in blood and urine samples temporarily. Some minerals, such as copper and zinc, may be increased temporarily by infection, inflammation , pregnancy , or various diseases and conditions.

The health care practitioner will interpret findings in conjunction with the person's symptoms and clinical history. ^ Back to top Is there anything else I should know? Trace minerals are found in varying concentrations in a wide variety of foods. Some forms of minerals are more "bioavailable" (or better absorbed) from an animal source than from a plant source, such as heme-iron found in meats versus non-heme iron found in vegetables, grains, and beans. Minerals are also added to foods to make them more readily available, such as "fortified" grains and cereals, fluoridated water, and iodized salt. Iron-Deficiency Anemia - National Library of Medicine - PubMed Health Treatment for women with postpartum iron deficiency anaemia Erythropoietin, a hormone, may help to treat women who develop anaemia after giving birth, but there may be rare adverse events. Routine Iron Supplementation and Screening for Iron Deficiency Anemia in Children Ages 6 to 24 Months: A Systematic Review to Update the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force Recommendation [Internet] In 2006, the U.S.

Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) concluded that the evidence was insufficient to recommend for or against routine screening and supplementation for asymptomatic children ages 6 to 12 months at average risk for iron deficiency anemia but recommended routine iron supplementation for those at increased risk. Treatments for anaemia in pregnancy thought to be due to iron deficiency When the blood has insufficient red cells, or the red cells carry insufficient haemoglobin to deliver adequate oxygen to the tissues, this is called anaemia. There is normally a reduction in the haemoglobin concentrations in the mother's blood during pregnancy, and this allows a better blood flow around the womb (uterus) and to the baby. This is sometime called physiological anaemia and needs no treatment. True anaemia, however, can be mild, moderate or severe and can cause weakness, tiredness and dizziness. Severe anaemia makes women at risk of cardiac failure and is very common in low‐income countries Anaemia has many causes including a shortage or iron, folic acid or vitamin B12. These are all required for making red cells and are available in a good diet. Iron shortage, however, is the most common cause of anaemia during pregnancy.

Iron treatment can be given by mouth (oral), by injection into the muscle (intramuscular) or injection into the vein (intravenous). Blood transfusion or giving something which stimulates the body to produce more red cells (erythropoietin) are also possible treatments. Treatment for women with iron deficiency anaemia after childbirth Anaemia is a condition where the blood contains less than normal haemoglobin (low blood count), as shown in blood tests. Haemoglobin is the molecule within red blood cells that requires iron to carry oxygen. Insufficient iron intake/uptake and iron loss (bleeding) can cause iron deficiency anaemia. Anaemia symptoms include tiredness, shortness of breath and dizziness. Women may bleed severely at childbirth and many pregnant women already have anaemia, which can worsen as a result of bleeding. Severe anaemia can be linked to maternal deaths. Iron deficiency anaemia after childbirth is more likely to occur in low‐income countries. What can Mineral Deficiencies Do? What can Mineral Deficiencies Do? In depth research on essential vitamins. What can Mineral Deficiencies Do? What can Mineral Deficiencies Do? By: Dr. George Obikoya Minerals are essential to the functioning of organ systems and our entire body.

Some of these minerals exist in large amounts in our body such as calcium. Others such as manganese exist in trace amounts but are, nonetheless, critical to our health and well- being. Minerals are inorganic substances (unnatural and man made) and they regulate processes within the body. Minerals are in different structures within the body to create enzymes, hormones, skeletal bones, skeletal tissues, teeth and fluids. Calcium and phosphorus are the two most common minerals found in the body. Some of the other prevalent minerals found in the body are; iron, zinc, sodium, potassium, magnesium, fluoride, sulfur, copper, and chloride. If mineral levels are overabundant in the body, such as sodium, they may facilitate negative effects in the body. High sodium levels may elevate blood pressure. If mineral levels are inadequate in the body, such as iron, they may facilitate negative effects in the body. Low iron levels in women can produce anemia (a deficiency in blood iron levels). Anemia can restrict oxygen and carbon dioxide removal from the cells. Low calcium levels can facilitate irregular muscle contractions, bone density loss, blood clotting and improper brain functioning.

Here is a run-through of the main minerals your body needs and the effects of their deficiency: Calcium is essential for building and maintaining healthy bones, muscle contraction and blood clotting mechanism. Calcium is also essential to build healthy teeth. Calcium deficiency symptoms include muscle aches and pains, muscle twitching and spasm, muscle cramps and reduced bone density. Vitamin D is essential for proper calcium absorption and utilization. A lack of calcium can cause rickets in children and osteoporosis in adults. Both conditions cause softening and weakening of the bones and can result in proneness to fractures. Postmenopausal women are especially likely to have calcium deficiency because of the reduction in estrogen during this period in their lives. Estrogen helps to keep calcium in the bones. Women, particularly older ones, need to supplement their diets with calcium. Calcium and vitamin D are important for maintaining bone density and reducing the risk of fractures. In elderly, ambulatory, white women over the age of 65 who were not using estrogen replacement, supplementation of calcium and vitamin D produces a significant improvement in bone density and reduction of fractures.

Through a combination of diet and supplements, women receiving hormone-replacement therapy (HRT) should get at least 1200 mg/d of calcium, while the goal should be 1500 mg/d for women not receiving HRT. Recommendations for vitamin D intake are now 400 IU/d for women aged 51 through 70, and 600 IU/d for those over 70 years of age. Children and teenagers, those on restricted diets (avoiding dairy products), the elderly, vegans and those concerned about osteoporosis also have higher needs for calcium. Chromium is involved in the processes that make glucose available for energy. It is also important for the metabolism of amino acids (the 'building blocks' of proteins) and fats. Deficiency symptoms include glucose intolerance or insulin resistant hyperglycaemia (excess sugar in the blood), raised serum lipids and weight loss. Studies have shown that chromium helps to lower blood sugar in individuals with type II Diabetes. Older people (over 55) plus those who exercise regularly as this may increase the loss of chromium from the body in urine, and will need chromium supplementation.

Note, however, that some chromium supplements contain yeast, which can interfere with certain prescription medicines. Individuals with diabetes should only take chromium under medical supervision. Chromium is unsuitable for pregnant or breast-feeding women, or for epileptics. We need copper for proteins involved in growth, nerve function and energy release. It is vital for the formation of some important proteins. It is a critical functional component of a number of essential enzymes, known as cuproenzymes. Two copper-containing enzymes, ceruloplasmin (ferroxidase I) and ferroxidase II are involved in iron metabolism. Copper is stored in appreciable amounts in the liver. It also has anti-oxidant properties and involved in the regulation of gene expression. One of the most common clinical signs of copper deficiency is an anemia that is unresponsive to iron therapy but corrected by copper supplementation. The anemia results from defective iron mobilization. Copper deficiency may also result in abnormally low numbers of white blood cells, which can make you susceptible to infections and unable to combat them when they occur. Iron-deficiency anemia is a form of anemia caused by lack of iron.

The body needs iron to make hemoglobin, a substance in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to body tissues. Much of the iron our body is stored in the bone marrow that makes blood cells. When there is not enough iron in the bloodstream, the body uses the bone marrow reserves. If this iron stored in the bone marrow is low, red blood cells do not form properly: they are smaller than usual (microcytosis) and fewer. As a result, less hemoglobin is available to transport oxygen throughout the body. Iron-deficiency anemia is the leading nutritional deficiency in the world and the most common type of anemia. In the United States, approximately 5% of women and 2% of men have iron-deficiency anemia. When you have iron-deficiency anemia, you will likely have fatigue, dizziness, irritability, headaches, difficulty concentrating, shortness of breath during exercise, a pale appearance, brittle nails, and cracked lips. You should not take too much iron supplements. Besides the risk of constipation, a recent study reported in Journal of the American Medical Association, shows that women who store too much iron in their body may be at increased risk for type 2 diabetes.

Magnesium plays important roles in the structure and the function of the human body, involved in more than 300 essential metabolic reactions, including energy production. The adult human body contains about 25 grams of magnesium. Signs of magnesium deficiency include low calcium, hence the diseases associated with it, low serum potassium levels (hypokalemia), retention of sodium, low circulating levels of parathyroid hormones (PTH,) neurological and muscular symptoms such as tremors, muscle spasms, tetany, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, and personality changes. The other trace minerals such as Molybdenum, selenium, phosphorus, iodine, potassium, sodium and zinc play important roles in our health and well-being and their deficiencies can create a variety of health problems for us. Thus, iodine lack can cause goiter, an enlargement of the thyroid gland and its associated symptoms and an important health problem throughout much of the world. A high-quality liquid multivitamin will contain all the minerals that your body needs. Americans spend almost $2 billion on vitamin and mineral supplements each year. There is doubt that this is money well spent all told. A good multivitamin is the foundation of health and nutrition.

Take a look at our scientific reviews of many of the popular brands for factors such as ingredients, areas of improvement, quality level, and overall value. If you are looking for a high quality liquid multivitamin, we suggest that you take a look at the Multivitamin Product Comparisons . Iron deficiency anemia: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia URL of this page: //medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000584.htm Iron deficiency anemia Anemia is a condition in which the body does not have enough healthy red blood cells. Red blood cells provide oxygen to body tissues. There are many types of anemia. Iron deficiency anemia occurs when your body does not have enough iron. Iron helps make red blood cells. Iron deficiency anemia is the most common form of anemia. Causes Red blood cells bring oxygen to the body's tissues. Healthy red blood cells are made in your bone marrow. Red blood cells circulate through your body for 3 to 4 months. Parts of your body, such as your spleen, remove old blood cells. Iron is a key part of red blood cells. Without iron, the blood cannot carry oxygen effectively. Your body normally gets iron through your diet.

It also reuses iron from old red blood cells. Iron deficiency anemia develops when your body's iron stores run low. This can occur because: You lose more blood cells and iron than your body can replace Your body does not do a good job of absorbing iron Your body is able to absorb iron, but you are not eating enough foods that contain iron Your body needs more iron than normal (such as if you are pregnant or breastfeeding) Bleeding can cause iron loss. Common causes of bleeding are: Heavy, long, or frequent menstrual periods Cancer in the esophagus, stomach, small bowel, or colon

Question: A deficiency in what mineral causes anemia?
Answer: Iron